Texan-Style Spicy Chicken Nuggets

Ingredients

In this Texan adaptation of chicken nuggets, we infuse the dish with the bold and spicy flavors that are characteristic of Texan cuisine. By incorporating Texan spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika, we elevate the taste profile of the original American chicken nuggets, giving them a fiery kick that Texan cuisine is known for. We alse have the original recipe for Chicken Nuggets, so you can check it out.

• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• 2 teaspoons chili powder 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
3. 3.
   Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
5. 5.
   Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
6. 6.
   Remove the chicken nuggets from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a crispier coating.
• Smoked paprika — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use regular paprika instead.
• Cayenne pepper — Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your desired level of spiciness.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the chicken pieces in the egg and flour mixture.
• Serve the chicken nuggets with a side of pickles or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavors.
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces like chipotle mayo or ranch dressing for added variety.
• To make the nuggets healthier, you can bake them in the oven instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving advice

Serve the Texan-style spicy chicken nuggets as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces or as a main course alongside a fresh salad and some cornbread for a complete Texan meal experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown chicken nuggets on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve them with the dipping sauce in small bowls or ramekins for an inviting presentation.